Trichoscopy for Hair Loss: What It Shows, Why It Comes Before PRP and What to Expect in London
Hair loss looks the same in the mirror whether the cause is pattern thinning, a shedding episode after illness or stress, or a scarring condition. Treatment only makes sense once you know which one you have. Trichoscopy is the quick, painless scalp examination that helps a doctor tell them apart.
To book a hair assessment, message the clinic on WhatsApp or call 020 3951 3429.
What trichoscopy is
Trichoscopy is an examination of the scalp and hair with a handheld dermatoscope or a videodermoscope, a magnifying device that shows structures the naked eye cannot see. DermNet describes it as a non-invasive, low-cost technique that allows the hair and scalp to be viewed at between 20 and 160 times magnification.
Source: DermNet, Trichoscopy.
What it can tell the doctor
According to DermNet, trichoscopy can help distinguish scarring from non-scarring hair loss, early pattern hair loss from telogen effluvium (diffuse shedding), and can help predict the course of alopecia areata. It can also guide where to take a scalp biopsy if one is needed, and track how a treatment is working over time.
The Primary Care Dermatology Society adds that dermoscopy is increasingly used to help diagnose the type of alopecia, which can reduce the need for scalp biopsies.
Source: PCDS, Alopecia overview.
Why this matters before PRP
PRP is aimed at hair follicles that are still alive but weakened, as in early to moderate pattern thinning. It is not a treatment for every cause of hair loss. If the cause is a shedding episode that settles on its own, or a scarring condition where follicles are being destroyed, the right next step is different. Diagnosis first protects you from paying for a treatment that cannot help.
The evidence for PRP in hair loss is encouraging but still limited, and we say so plainly. An honest assessment includes telling you when PRP is not the right answer.
How to prepare
DermNet advises that hair washing can remove important signs, and that people are often asked not to wash their hair for 2 to 3 days before a trichoscopic examination. Ask the clinic what they prefer before your visit. Bring a list of medicines, recent blood tests and photographs of how your hair looked a year ago if you have them.
Source: DermNet, Trichoscopy.
Questions people ask
Does trichoscopy hurt?
No. It is a magnified look at the scalp and takes a few minutes.
Will I need a scalp biopsy as well?
Not usually. The PCDS notes that dermoscopy can reduce the need for biopsies, though a biopsy is still used when the diagnosis stays unclear, particularly for suspected scarring alopecia.
Do I need blood tests too?
Often it helps. Thyroid problems, low iron and other causes can drive shedding. A targeted hair loss blood panel is £495 and the full comprehensive panel is £595.
How much does it cost?
A hair consultation with dermoscopic imaging is £150. PRP, if it is right for you, is £450 a session or £1,215 for a course of three.
When to be seen sooner
Sudden patchy hair loss, a painful or inflamed scalp, or hair loss with scarring should be assessed promptly. Your NHS GP or a dermatologist can help if you cannot reach us.
Book a hair assessment
Message WhatsApp, call 020 3951 3429 or email concierge@thelondonprpclinic.com. The London PRP Clinic, Unit 4, 10 Portman Square, London W1H 6AZ.